South Africa coach Hugo Broos has signaled a clear shift in approach for the national team, giving Orlando Pirates attacker Relebohile Mofokeng an opportunity to shine in a number 10 role during back-to-back friendly matches against Panama. The decision adds extra intrigue to Bafana Bafana’s World Cup preparations, with the squad set to face the Central Americans in Durban and Cape Town next week.
Broos will lead Bafana Bafana at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban before taking the same mission to Cape Town Stadium. These fixtures are part of South Africa’s build-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With major tournament preparation underway, the coach appears keen to test attacking creativity and tighten the connection between midfield thinking and final-phase execution.
At the heart of Broos’ thinking is how South Africa wants to break down opponents—especially when matches call for a player who can receive in tight spaces, pick the right pass, and drive momentum forward. That is why Mofokeng’s chance is meaningful: he’s not being handed the spotlight as a wide attacker, but rather as the key link behind the forward line.
Broos’ plan also follows scrutiny around the role of Sipho Mbule, who previously struggled to meet expectations as a playmaker during the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco earlier this year. While Mbule had moments in the build-up phase, Broos has moved on in search of a more consistent creative outlet. Replacing him is veteran Themba Zwane, who is expected to bring experience and calm to the squad.
The competitive reality, however, is that Zwane may not immediately start. Broos hinted that if Zwane travels to the next set of matches, he will likely be used strategically rather than as a guaranteed starter. That sets the stage for Mofokeng to carry the main creative responsibility from the start—exactly where Broos believes he can influence the game most.
Broos’ comments also reflect a wider understanding of player fit. Over at Orlando Pirates, the coaching direction has already leaned toward Mofokeng operating centrally. Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has previously insisted that Mofokeng suits a number 10 position more than a winger spot, and that has been visible in how he has been deployed throughout much of the season.
Broos commits to Relebohile Mofokeng number 10 role in Panama friendlies
Speaking on Mofokeng’s development, Broos made his expectations clear while also giving the winger-turned-playmaker a direct test. He described the player’s intelligence and qualities as assets that can lift the team, then made it clear that the coaching staff will now judge him on whether he can deliver at this higher creative level.
“He’s not a winger, but I will see now if he can satisfy us in that position,” Broos said, underlining that the current plan is centered on Mofokeng’s ability to operate as the creative hub.
Broos further explained his reasoning, noting that Mofokeng’s attributes don’t align with traditional winger demands. In his view, the player lacks the specific qualities typically required on the flank, but he can become a meaningful attacker in the role that demands vision, timing, and decision-making.
“With his intelligence and qualities, he can help the team a lot. It’s up to him now,” the coach added. In other words, this is not just a symbolic call-up—it’s a performance-based opportunity, and Broos is ready to see what Mofokeng can produce when given the freedom to orchestrate from behind the attack.
That approach is particularly relevant for friendlies, where coaches can trial tactical combinations without the pressure that comes with knockout fixtures. If Mofokeng successfully links play between midfield and attack, Bafana could gain a dependable structure for tougher matches ahead.
Meanwhile, Broos also welcomed an update on Zwane’s readiness. He expressed satisfaction that Zwane has returned to full fitness and is getting valuable minutes with Mamelodi Sundowns. That matters because a fit Zwane provides depth in both attacking build-up and overall game management.
Broos drew a comparison to Mbule as well, recalling how the playmaker had influenced South Africa during World Cup qualifiers in the early months of the year. He acknowledged that Mbule had been outstanding in certain stretches, particularly in September and October, but emphasized the importance of consistency.
“When you see what Themba did before his injury, he was consistent in his performances,” Broos said. “He made us play better… He’s intelligent, and he understands what to do.”
Importantly, Broos also suggested a style of coaching that trusts player instincts. He stated he didn’t need to continually instruct Zwane, because Zwane was already carrying out the ideas he wanted on the pitch. Broos now expects that kind of natural execution from Mofokeng too, believing the same intelligence that helped Zwane can allow Mofokeng to perform with similar impact.
With Panama visiting twice in quick succession, Mofokeng’s number 10 assignment could quickly become one of the defining storylines of the camp. If he delivers creativity, structure, and decisive passes, Broos will have a clearer answer about the future shape of Bafana’s attacking midfield.
For now, everything points to one thing: Broos is willing to back Relebohile Mofokeng number 10 role as the creative engine, and the Panama friendlies will show whether that faith turns into tangible, match-winning influence for South Africa.